Sri Lankan Artist Shanaka Kulathunga explores memory, rural life in his first solo show in India

A solo exhibition by Sri Lankan artist Shanaka Kulathunga, "Silent Stories," showcases 49 artworks inspired by the island nation's culture, rural life, and landscapes at Bikaner House in New Delhi.

Marking an important cultural exchange between India and Sri Lanka, a first solo exhibition by celebrated Sri Lankan artist Shanaka Kulathunga showcases paintings inspired by memory, rural life and cultural landscapes of the island nation.

Opened on Thursday at the CCA Building, Bikaner House, ''Silent Stories'' brings together 41 oil paintings alongside 8 digital prints on archival paper, exploring themes of identity, human connection, everyday life, and personal recollection.

It is organised by Gallery Silver Scapes and curated by art critic Archana Khare-Ghose.

Born in Sri Lanka in 1981, Kulathunga's works depict teachers, labourers, elders, children and dancers, capturing emotions and everyday moments through layered narratives and symbolic imagery. His practice draws from lived experiences, blending observation, imagination and personal memory.

''My works are deeply connected to the environment and experiences that have shaped me. Through this exhibition in India, I hope to share a part of my world and create a space where viewers can connect their own memories with the narratives within the paintings,'' Kulathunga said in a statement.

The art show also witnessed the launch of ''Silent Stories'', a book dedicated to Kulathunga's artistic journey and creative practice, offering deeper insight into his inspirations, process, and evolving visual language.

Extending the exhibition's narrative beyond the gallery space, the publication reflects on recurring themes within his practice, including rural life, human relationships, and emotional memory.

Khare-Ghose described Kulathunga's work as carrying ''a quiet intensity'' rooted in empathy and observation, where ordinary moments are transformed into contemplative visual narratives.

''There is a strong sense of observation and empathy in his practice, where everyday moments are transformed into something deeply contemplative. This exhibition opens up a dialogue between closely connected cultural contexts,'' she added.

The show will come to a close on May 28.